Since it hasn't been mentioned so far and it seems to be the right tool for exactly what you are trying to achieve: [Aggregate Polygons][1] Set the **minimum_hole_size** to the minimum size of a polygon hole you want to keep. Smaller ones will be eliminated. PS. The optional **minimum_area** value in the same tool does the same for the polygon parts that are not holes. [1]: http://help.arcgis.com/EN/ArcGISDesktop/10.0/Help/index.html#//00700000000s000000